Bushnell Begins 2nd Century With High-spirited Celebration

October 29, 1985

BUSHNELL — Those who wanted to remember what it was like in this city 100 years ago had the opportunity to get into the spirit Saturday when centennial committee officials put on a celebration to commemorate the city's birthday.

Residents and visitors were treated to an all-day program that included a parade and contests. There were competitions in pie baking, costumes, frog jumping, log sawing, longest beard and watermelon eating. The Southern Star bluegrass band of Plant City performed and there was a barbecue dinner.

The establishment of a post office in the community on Oct. 28, 1885, brought about the beginning of Bushnell. In 1913, Bushnell was incorporated and became the county seat when the courthouse at Sumterville burned and the county seat was moved.